IMM3062

Clinical and research laboratory immunology ( 6 points, SCA Band 3, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr John Emmins

Offered:
MMS-ALFRED Second semester 2005 (Day)

Synopsis: Students will learn more advanced techniques used in clinical and research immunology laboratories. These include assays for blood group typing, lymphocyte proliferation, cytokines, cell mediated cytotoxicity and plaque forming cells. In vivo experimental models of immune disorders such as graft-versus-host disease are also examined. The course is laboratory based with tutorials to cover the theoretical basis of the techniques. In the final six weeks students will be attached (in small groups) to a research or clinical laboratory and conduct their own 'mini-research project'. Students will plan, execute and report on the project and will present their findings in a research forum.

Objectives: On completion of the unit students will have a good knowledge of clinical laboratory immunology; have acquired practical experience in advanced immunological techniques used in diagnostic and research laboratories; have developed skills in the planning and implementation of a research project, and in the analysis and interpretation of scientific data; be able to source information in the scientific literature and on the web concerning topics related to the discipline; have developed communication skills in scientific report writing and oral presentations.

Assessment: Practical class reports: 15% + Research project report: 25% + One assignment (1000 words): 10% + One 3-hour practical examination: 50%

Contact Hours: One 6-hour practical class including one 1-hour tutorial per week

Prerequisites: One level-two biological science unit + Recommended: IMM3031, IMM3051 and a level-one unit in both biology and chemistry

Corequisites: IMM3042 (highly recommended)